Press release

Italy defeat Poland in five-set thriller

Italian captain Serena Ortolani inspired her team with a solid display

Kaohsiung, Chinese Taipei, June 24, 2012 – Italy clinched a thrilling 3-2 (23-25, 20-25, 26-24, 25-23, 15-13) win over Poland, fighting back from two sets down in the FIVB Volleyball World Grand Prix in Chinese Taipei on Sunday.

Captain Serena Ortolani topped the scores with 29 points while Poland's Agnieszka Bednarek-Kasza came second with 26 points.

Poland led in the first set, and had a four-point lead until Italy managed to catch up at 22-24 and 23-24. Poland had to call for two timeouts in a row before a quick spike from Agnieszka Bednarek-Kasza sealed the set.

Italy began aggressively at the beginning of the second set but Poland levelled at 6-6. The two teams struggled to and fro until Poland were able to wrestle the lead at the second TTO 16-14. Italy called for a time-out at 17-19, but Poland drew away at 22-18. Poland performed two solid blocks and Italy then sent a serve long to gift the Poles the set.

Poland then lost concentration at the beginning of the third set and Italy were able to lead at 18-13. But Poland pulled themselves back together, and managed to level the scores at 18-18. However, World Cup holder Italy proved their excellence, edging the set 26-24.

Italy surged ahead in the fourth 14-11 forcing Poland to call for a time-out. Italy kept on with their dominance, as captain Serena Ortolani put through several powerful spikes, helping her side take the match to a tie-breaker.

Poland regained their composure at the beginning of the tie-breaker and took a 3-0 lead, but Italy showed their determination for victory, levelling the scores at 5-5. Captain Ortolani scored two aces and led her team to 10-8. Each team displayed spectacular tips and defence, however a solid block from Italy saw them seal the win.